Maynard described the decision to end their engagement as "very difficult and heartbreaking".

She said: "As you know, at first I wasn't sure that I should even be The Bachelorette, but I am a hopeless romantic and I do believe in the show. I have no regrets because I did find love and shared an incredible journey with a really special person – and you know what, we tried our best because the love between us was so real.

"I have nothing but respect and love for Jef and his family, but ultimately we are just at different points in our lives. I've learned so much and I'm grateful for all of the support I've received. I'm excited and hopeful for the next chapter in my life with my daughter, Ricki.

"I do hope that you will respect our privacy and allow us the time we need to heal."

Holm said: "Meeting Emily on The Bachelorette was an incredible experience, we've had quite the journey. I've never loved someone so much in my whole life, Emily is the best person and mum I have ever met... She has a great group of people who surround her.

"What we shared was completely genuine and real and it breaks my heart but we have decided to break up. Emily will always have a special place in my heart. I don't regret a single second I spent with her or Ricki. They both have been a huge part of my life. Who knows what tomorrow will bring, but we are moving on to the next chapter of our lives."

Holm expressed a hope that he and Maynard "can continue to be friends forever" and insisted that there was no "salacious story" behind their break-up.

"The truth is we are just two people who fell in love and tried our hardest to make it work. I will always love her," he added.